Why is the melting point of saturated carbon chains greater than unsaturated carbon chains?

Unsaturated carbon chains contain one or more C-C double bonds. Due to the C-C double bonds, the chain is kinked which means it is not able to pack regularly which results in a lower melting point.

CH
Answered by Charles H. Chemistry tutor

2975 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

describe the structure of graphite


Describe and explain the electrical conductivity of lithium oxide, Li2O, and lithium in their solid and molten states.


Describe the Kekule and delocalised model of benzene and explain some of the reasons why the kekule is disproved


What is Hund's rule?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning